Anthony Albanese, Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, today officially opened the new preschool room at the Yarrawong Children’s Centre in Orange today.

Minister Albanese said that the Rudd Labor Government had provided $180,000 towards the $230,000 extension of the centre.

“This project supported four jobs during construction and has created one ongoing job at the Yarrawong Children’s Centre.

“The new preschool room will double the capacity of the centre to deliver preschool programs and cater for up to 20 four- and five-year olds.

“This project is a great example of the Rudd Government’s investment in local jobs today while delivering the modern infrastructure local families need for the future.

“We have provided this funding through our Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, which now stands at more than $1 billion.

“This record funding has already funded more than 3,300 local infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs in every community,” he said.

Minister Albanese said that the next round of funding under the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program was now open, with $220 million available for local councils across Australia.

“Every local government area has received funding under the Program, including nearly $1.3 million so far allocated to Orange City Council.

“I congratulate the Orange City Council for delivering local infrastructure projects that make a practical difference to the community,” Mr Albanese concluded.